In practice, what does the zeroth law of thermodynamics imply about systems A, B, and C?

Study for the OSAT Physical Science Test. Practice with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

The zeroth law of thermodynamics establishes a fundamental principle regarding temperature and thermal equilibrium among systems. It states that if two systems, A and B, are in thermal equilibrium with a third system, C, then A and C must also be in thermal equilibrium with each other. This means that A and C share the same temperature.

In practical terms, when two systems are in thermal equilibrium, there is no net heat transfer between them, indicating that they are at the same temperature. Therefore, if both A and C are in equilibrium with B, they must exhibit equal temperatures, validating the statement.

This understanding of the zeroth law is crucial because it lays the groundwork for the concept of temperature in thermodynamics, allowing for the comparison of temperatures between different systems based on their relationships with a common standard.

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